Coalition commits to CBD security boost

ALMOST 60 closed-circuit television security cameras in the City of Greater Bendigo will receive a $360,000 overhaul if the Coalition wins the Federal election.

Liberal candidate for Bendigo Matt Evans, his Nationals counterpart Andrew Lethlean and opposition Home Affairs and Cyber Security spokesman Senator James Paterson made the pledge in a joint statement last week.

Mr Evans and Mr Lethlean were joined by Neighbourhood Watch Bendigo co-president Stacey Wilkinson for the announcement in the Bendigo Library gardens.

The money, for upgrades to 57 cameras, will be drawn from a revitalised Safer Communities Fund, established by the last coalition government to deliver grant funding to councils, schools and local organisations.

Fund money was to be used to help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, enhance security around community spaces, and promote social cohesion.

The announcement follows growing concern in the Bendigo community about crime and violence, highlighted by a reported brawl at Bendigo Marketplace on 3 March which included the alleged assaults of a security guard and a member of the public.

Three people aged from 14 to 17 have been charged and the shopping centre has indicated it will increase security.

Premier and Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said she had taken her children to the centre just 48 hours before the incident, and Bendigo-based Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad raised the matter in Parliament.

Ms Allan and her government are facing increasing pressure on crime – particularly youth crime – and are reviewing bail laws, while a change.org petition titled ‘Implement Stronger Measures Against Youth Crime in Bendigo’ has already attracted hundreds of signatures since it was started on 3 March.

Mr Evans said the upgrades to cameras would help Bendigo people feel safe as they go about their daily lives.

“This funding is a direct response to the concerns raised by our community,” he said.

“I’ve heard first-hand from local residents that safety is a priority, and we’re responding with practical measures to help make public spaces safer for everyone.

“There has been particular concern about crime and anti-social behaviour in the Bendigo CBD area, including at public transport hubs, shopping precincts and public spaces.”

Mr Lethlean welcomed the funding promise, which he said would support a safer community.

“We all have a right to be safe in our homes and on our streets, but after 22 years working in hospitality businesses I’ve never seen crime levels this bad in our community,” he said.

“We have so many fantastic local businesses and we should all be able to go out and enjoy them, whether it’s during the day or at night, and feel safe.”